Biannual information on the withdrawal from circulation of counterfeit euro banknotes in Portugal – 1st half of 2019
In the first half of 2019, 7,427 counterfeit banknotes were withdrawn from circulation in Portugal. The number of counterfeit banknotes seized remains residual compared with total banknotes in circulation.
Number of counterfeit banknotes withdrawn from circulation in Portugal
2nd half of 2018 | 1st half of 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
Eur 5 | 49 | 45 |
Eur 10 | 146 | 166 |
Eur 20 | 2,462 | 2,486 |
Eur 50 | 3,779 | 3,436 |
Eur 100 | 225 | 524 |
Eur 200 | 21 | 291 |
Eur 500 | 75 | 479 |
Total | 6,757 | 7,427 |
Source: "Counterfeit Monitoring System" as at 15 July 2019.
The seized counterfeit banknotes were of regular quality and could be recognised by using the ‘feel, look and tilt’ method to check their security features ('FEEL, LOOK and TILT' method), with no need for extra verification aids. It is essential to recognise a genuine banknote when receiving one, as a counterfeit banknote cannot be exchanged for a genuine one.
Banco de Portugal and the European Central Bank provide information on euro banknote characteristics and security features, as well as authenticity checking techniques. Through its regional network, Banco de Portugal also provides training on the knowledge of euro banknotes for different target groups.
On 28 May 2019, new €100 and €200 banknotes will be put into circulation, completing the second series of Euro banknotes, the Europa series. These banknotes have new security features, a satellite hologram and an improved emerald number, which together make euro banknotes even more secure.
